In the latest major communal fundraising effort, Magen David Adom UK has passed its £2 million target from a 36-hour campaign which ran over Sunday and Monday.

The campaign was aided by a livestreamed event hosted by Robert Rinder and watched by 1,400 people which showcased MDA’s life-saving work in Israel. Gal Gadot was among celebrities who sent messages of support.

Mr Rinder told viewers: “For me, MDA encompasses all that is good and great about Israel, which is why I am such a passionate supporter and why I’m here tonight.” 

Like other communal charities, MDA UK has been unable to hold in-person fundraising events because of the pandemic, making other sources of revenue essential. Last week, Chai Cancer Care raised more than £3 million from a similar online campaign.

MDA UK chief executive Daniel Burger said: “We are so grateful to everyone who donated, taking us over the £2 million target. The power of communal effort is outstanding and we are truly overwhelmed by all the support, especially in such a challenging year.”